2013 Mini Cooper Paceman: First Look

Competes with: Nissan Juke, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

Looks Like: A flattened, more aggressive version of the Countryman

Drivetrain: Base versions use a 122-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder, and S versions use the same engine, tuned to make 184 hp. Europe’s two diesel versions include a 112-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter and 143-hp 2.0-liter

Hits dealerships: March 16 in the U.K. No word yet on when it will hit the U.S.

We first saw the oddly named, stocky, little Paceman in concept guise at the 2011 Detroit auto show. It looks like the production version is on its way. The Paceman, essentially a two-door version of the Mini Cooper Countryman, will go on sale first in Europe next spring.

The seventh member of Mini’s expanding family, the Paceman is the same length as the Countryman, but it has only two doors and seats only four passengers. It’s also more squat-looking, with a lowered suspension, sloping roofline, long doors and an integrated spoiler.

The concept was powered by the same engine as the John Cooper Works version of the Cooper: a 211-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder. The production versions, at least in Europe, will use four powertrains. Base versions use a 122-hp 1.6-liter, and S versions use the same engine, tuned to make 184 hp. Europe’s two diesel versions include a 112-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter and a 143-hp 2.0-liter.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard. A six-speed automatic is optional, as is all-wheel drive. Standard on all is an auto stop/start system. Optional is a sport button that alters engine response and steering settings. Mini said a John Cooper Works version of the Paceman is in development.

Inside, the two rear seats are arranged in what Mini calls the “lounge concept.” There are two separate chairs with built-in armrests; standard sport seats are in the front.

The instrument panel is classic Mini, with a large, round central speedometer. Glossy black and chrome inner rings make it stand out from the rest of the brand’s vehicles, as do the Paceman’s redesigned air vents. The window switches also have a new home, moved to the door instead of the instrument panel.

The Paceman will go on sale in the U.K. on March 16, starting at 18,970 pounds. That’s $30,775 in U.S. currency, a lot more than the 2012 Countryman, which starts at $22,450 including destination.

Comments

I'm confused by the reference to the Murano Cabriolet. This isn't a drop top CUV afterthought. I applaud MINI for continuing to come out with daring, interesting new vehicles instead of the mindless, churning out of "me too" jellybeans that pass for new cars today.

I am super excited about the 2013 mini! In fact, so excited that I couldn't help building a website on the 2013 mini :)

The roadster looks awesome! Can't wait to test drive the jcw model!!

www.2013mini.com

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